James Harden did not deny that his relationship with the Philadelphia 76ers was broken. And when asked if he thought he was irredeemable, the star agreed.
“I think so” He told Jason Bristol of KHOU 11 During a charity event in Houston.
Harden’s turbulent season began when he picked up a player option worth $35.6 million in his contract and simultaneously demanded a trade from the Sixers in June – specifically to the Los Angeles Clippers. Philadelphia attempted to accommodate this request but eventually ended trade talks when no market emerged for Harden.
Soon after, Harden publicly denounced 76ers President of Basketball Operations Daryl Morey during a trip to China and hinted that he would rather play in China than return to the NBA. It was a strange game of influence that had almost no path to success because of the league’s collective bargaining agreement.
But Harden said what he said, and will now have to deal with the consequences if he decides to skip training camp. Speaking with Bristol, he added that he had been “patient all summer” with the team – perhaps a nod to that A report states that the 76ers were never involved in contract negotiations with Harden.
“For me, it’s just about what I can control, and that’s training, staying in shape and preparing for the season,” Harden added.
This certainly looks as if Harden intends to play in 2023. But what is not clear as to which team. If Harden leaves Philadelphia for a club other than the Houston Rockets or Brooklyn Nets, it will be his fourth team since 2020.
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